Kyle Walker - always a Blade

24 July 2013

Kyle Walker says the Blades will always have a special place in his heart, but he regrets not having the chance to represent his country on the hallowed turf of Bramall Lane.

The Tottenham defender, now a full England international, is speaking ahead of the Lane hosting England U21s versus their Scottish counterparts next month, as part of the FA’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

The game will be played on Tuesday 13th August, kick-off 7.30pm and Walker has memories of watching his Spurs team-mate and former Blade Kyle Naughton making his U21s debut against the Czech Republic in 2009.

Walker remarked: "I try and get back as often as possible. It’s my hometown and it’s where I grew up playing football from the age of six. My Granddad used to take me to Bramall Lane and I will always be a Blade.

"I can remember going to watch the Under-21s there when Kyle Naughton made his debut. And luckily enough I managed to follow him into the Under-21 team but I never got the chance to play at the Lane."

Speaking about the importance of the representing your country from a young age, Walker added: "It’s vital experience for younger players.

"I went to Ukraine with the U19s for the Euro Finals in 2009, and just to play tournament football and be away from home for a longer period of time was just a massive learning curve for me. It makes you grow up a lot quicker too."

Tickets for next month’s fixture between the Auld Enemy are priced at £10 adults, £5 concessions and only £20 for a family of four* (*T&Cs apply). A special offer is available to current Sheffield United Season Ticket Holders and Members, who can claim a free ticket in a special '2 for 1 offer' for a limited period only, by calling into the Ticket Office at Bramall Lane or phoning the Sheffield United ticket hotline on 0871 995 1889. The ticket website for fans is www.sufc.talent-sport.co.uk